Many of you will be aware of the recent ransomware attacks on chambers. This should act as a wake-up call for everyone to check the security of their information networks and that their critical business interruption plans are up to date and effective. This is particularly the case where so many barristers continue to work from home. It is not only chambers’ systems but home systems which are vulnerable to attack. Do note the recent surge in malware attacks through SMS (text) messages including hyperlinks indicting you need to ‘click here’ to access information:
https://www.makeuseof.com/android-flubot-malware-sms-scam-cases-surge-across-uk-and-other-countries/
If you and your chambers have not obtained insurance for cyber attacks or business interruption, it may be sensible to consider this now.
The IT Panel of the Bar Council has provided guidance as to measures for Information Security, Internet Security issues, and Data protection and security when working from home.
The NCSC also provides useful guidance on cybersecurity.
Separately, the International Bar Association’s Presidential Task Force on Cybersecurity issued Cybersecurity Guidelines on October 2018 (the IBA Cybersecurity Guidelines). These also provide useful assistance for practitioners:
https://www.ibanet.org/LPRU/Cybersecurity
https://www.ibanet.org/MediaHandler?id=2F9FA5D6-6E9D-413C-AF80-681BAFD300B0
The Bar Council is currently looking at cybersecurity training providers for the Bar and more information on this will be available soon.
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